How to Choose the Best Electric Patio Heater uk
It's time to consider expanding your outdoor space now that summer's heat wave is a distant memory.
And what better way to do that than to get a new patio heater? What kind of heater is the best one to buy? We've compiled a guide to help you choose the most efficient electric patio heaters in the UK.
Flexibility
There are plenty of different heaters to choose from, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are better suited to larger spaces, others better suited for indoor use, and some are more efficient than other models. What matters most is whether the heater is appropriate for you and your needs.
If you're on a tight budget and want something simple and effective and efficient, the Kettler Kalos copper lantern patio heater is the perfect. It's designed to resemble a traditional lantern and boasting a stunning shiny finish, it's easy to move around your garden (although since it's electric, you'll be restricted by where your power socket is located). It doesn't have any of the premium safety features such as tilt cut-out but it does come with overheat protection and a handy remote control.
The Herschel Stratus is a great option for those looking for some extra elegance and luxury. Its sophisticated mediumwave radiant heating system is able to heat objects more than the surrounding air which means it's less likely to be blown away by strong winds. It also offers an all-day timer that can be set for 24 hours to ensure maximum efficiency and an intuitive touchscreen display that allows you to monitor and adjust the temperature of your outdoor space.
Kettler's Tri-Tier electric heater is a great option. It's easy to separate the tiers to get the exact coverage that you require. It is also very simple to put back together. It's not as fashionable as Stratus but it looks nice and comes with a cover.
Gas patio heaters offer plenty of flexibility, since you can move them wherever you'd like. Electric models must be close to a source of power. Gas models can also be able to heat a larger area than electric versions but they can be a bit more expensive to operate.
When it comes to choosing an electric patio heater, ensure you take into account the space, size of the heater and any other features you might need. For instance, certain models have a low-glare feature that can help you keep out harsh lighting. You may want to think about the power supply and how you intend to utilize your heater. You can also search for other options, such as designs and colors to complement your decor.
Energy efficiency
There's no need for gas supply when using electric patio heaters, meaning they do not emit carbon monoxide and are more secure in areas prone to wind. They are less efficient than gas heaters. The most efficient models are dimmable and can be turned off/on at a remote or via the use of a timer. This helps to save energy even when you're not there.
They're also suitable for smaller spaces in which there's not enough natural ventilation, and they're incredibly affordable to run - around 50p per hour with a 1500W model with maximum heat. This is why they are popular with those who require a multi-purpose portable heater that can be used throughout the year.
A favorite among our testers, this chic copper heater looks like a traditional lantern and is the perfect addition to a cozy garden or dining space. Its halogen lamp emits medium and short wave infrared, which can effectively warm areas that are up to 5m away. Additionally, its precise reflectors help distribute the heat evenly.
This compact heater is another great option for a small garden. It plugs directly into the wall with no wires. Its curved, spherical design offers plenty of heat while being simple to use. Customers love the adjustable temperature settings, which they say make it easy to maintain the device at the ideal temperature.
This is a very affordable heater that doesn't sacrifice quality. Its wattage is lower than other models listed in this guide, however it still provides a hefty quantity of heat - the equivalent of 6 large candles. It comes with three settings for heat, so you can adjust the amount of warmth in accordance with your requirements. It's also easy to move.
Although these heaters do not produce the same amount of heat, they're also more expensive to run. If you're looking for a economical option, consider models with a variety of temperatures to ensure that you don't use too much energy when it isn't needed.
Safety
A patio heater is a major investment, so it's vital to choose one that will be safe for your family. Find heaters that have safety features, such as automatic shut-off and anti-tipping. These features can help prevent burns and injuries in homes with children.
The power source of your patio heater is a different aspect to take into consideration when it comes to safety. You'll need an outdoor electrical outlet to connect the majority of electric models. Choose a model with a long cord to make this simpler, or you could consider purchasing a power extension lead that is specifically designed to work with outdoor devices.
A lot of electric patio heaters are constructed with an infrared heating system that converts energy into radiant heat, which reduces energy consumption while providing warmth and comfort. This is more secure than gas models because it doesn't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. This is an excellent alternative for those concerned with the environmental impact of their purchase.
Lastly, a good electric patio heater will feature cool-to-the-touch surfaces and an automatic shut-off feature to safeguard users from burns. These safety features are particularly important for households with small children or pets. In addition, ensure that you keep your patio heater away from fire-prone materials and do not attempt to move it when it is still hot.
There are many electric patio heaters that can be customized to fit your home and lifestyle. Find models with various features, such as remote controls, app compatibility and energy efficiency, to suit your needs and preferences. Be sure to adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer to ensure the safety of your outdoor heater.
Design
As a focal point of your garden, it's crucial to choose a patio heater that matches your furniture and overall design. Choose models with sleek, modern designs or come in a variety colours and finishes. Some models come with decorative elements like decorative latticework, or flickering fire that adds to your outdoor space's ambience.
Be aware of the heat output and energy consumption of an electric model when choosing one. The more powerful models with higher BTU ratings of the more powerful models as well as models with a larger coverage area will provide more heat, but they will cost more to operate.
To minimise energy bills, opt for a high-efficiency model that uses infrared technology to warm your guests rather than traditional sources of heat. You may want to consider a model with multiple heat settings or one that can oscillate 360 degrees. Both of these will aid in maximizing the warmth for your guests.
Gas-powered patio heaters can provide more heat coverage than their electric counterparts, but require a lot of natural airflow in order to function safely. They are a great option for large, well-ventilated areas and are often cheaper than their electric counterparts.
This is a long-lasting and reliable option because of its rust-proof, weatherproof metal construction. Its two carbon fibre-filament lamps emit infrared medium wave to give balanced heat across a wide area. The column heater that is freestanding is easy to operate and offers many useful features, including an adjustable remote control, a remote control tilt and 360deg oscillation.
This is an excellent choice for outdoor entertaining. electric garden patio heater and lightweight design makes it easy to move around your garden. Its built-in automatic shut-off feature ensures your guests are safe even if the heater tips.
This model is modern and minimalist design that complements most exterior decor styles. Its energy efficient halogen bulbs can easily heat up to 10m2, while its weatherproof and rust-proof metal construction will stand up to the elements. A great feature of this model is the remote control as well as a timer that can be set to automatically turn off the heater at specific times.